Joyce's Search Tip - January 2008    Do You Know that you can search just the Obituaries on the site by using the three County Specific Obituary selections in the Partitioned search engine at the bottom of the Current What's New Page? You can narrow your search by including a key word in the cemetery name or a township name in addition to the surname you search. Then select the Find All Words option.  You'll also find obituary and other newspaper clippings using Clippings partition. Additional clippings can be found in the Birth, Marriage, and some other partitions.

Reading a series of obituaries from a single cemetery, as they are presented here, is like reading the multi-generational history of a community. These people were the local populace at a particular time. The people buried here knew each other, were neighbors, relatives and school mates. They attended church together and engaged in "trade" or business.  All people are listed in alphabetic order by surname at BIRTH. Women identified by a married alias only and  for whom a birth surname can not be identified, are listed on the last page for the cemetery's obituaries. Please send in typed obituaries for people buried in our local cemeteries. If possible include name of newspaper and date. Send typed in your email or in attached Word files. Send to Joyce M. Tice (JoyceTice@aol.com)

LATHAN ANDRUS (ANDREWS). The death of Lathan Andrews occurred Saturday Feb. 2, 1907.  The funeral was held at the home of his son, Forrest, Feb. 26.  The interment was in Main St. Cemetery.  The departed was nearly 78 years of age.  An obituary notice will appear later.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

EDITH BARNES, Services will be held Monday at 2 p.m. for Miss Edith Barnes, 90, formerly of Canton, who died Friday, Nov. 17, 1971, at the Rebekah Home, in Harrisburg, where she resided.  Born May 15, 1881, in West Franklin, Granville Township, she was graduated in 1897 from Canton High School and began teaching in Canton schools at 16.  She later was graduated with honors from Mansfield State College.  Miss Barnes and a sister, Maude, operated the former Rialto Theater in Canton, during the silent movie days.  She was a member of the United Methods Church, and for more that 60 years was a member of Lady Canton Rebekah Lodge 362.  Surviving is a sister, Mrs. Pearl B. Colwell, of Elmira, N.Y.  Services will be at the Kleese funeral home, at Canton.  Burial will be in the Main Street Cemetery there.  The Rev. C. David Jones will officiated.  Friends may call today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home, where the Rebakah lodge will conduct memorial service at 6 p.m.

BARROW –MRS. MARY A. (BARROW) LANDON was born near Delhi, Delaware County, N.Y., and moved to Union, Tioga County, with her parents when quite small.  She was next to the oldest of a family of five boys and four girls.  May 24, 1846 she was married to Benjamin Landon, of East Canton, where they lived until about 1874 when they moved to Canton, where she lived until her death, January 15, 1091.  She was a member of the Church of Christ for over thirty years an active worker.  She was one who all through life tried to make it lively and pleasant to all around her.  The following poetry was attached to her last will and bequest, which shows her full sentiments in every respect:  (Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton.)

WHEN I AM DEAD
When I am Dead,
I would not have the rude and gaping crowd
Around me gather, and ‘mid lamentation loud,
Tell of my virtues, and with vain regret
Bemoan my loss, and, leaving me forgot.
But I would have the few of kindly heart,
Who, when misfortunes came, so nobly did their part,
And oft by thoughtful deeds their love express-
Those would I have, no more, no less, when I am dead!
When I am dead,
I would not have the high and storied stone
Placed o’er my grave, and then be left alone;
But I would have some things I once did love,
Ere I did leave the joyous world above,
Placed o’er me. And each succeeding year
I’d have my friends renew them, and oft linger near,
With loving thoughts upon the dear one laid below,
And talk of times departed long ago, when I am Dead!
When I am dead,
Forgive – Oh this I pray far more than all –
The anguish I have caused, the  deed beyond recall.
Think kindly of me as I lie so still,
So poor a subject for an angered will;
Think of some generous deed, some good word spoken,
Of hearts bound up I found all sad and broken;
Think gently, when this last long rest is mine,
And gaze upon my form with looks benign, when I am dead.
                             Franklin P. Daly, in Guardian

MISS NELLIE M. BENEDICT, 83, of Canton, died Friday, Feb. 5, 1965, in Troy Community Hospital.  A former Canton borough tax assessor, she was a member of the Conservative Baptist Church, Canton, where she taught a primary class in Sunday school for 67 years.  Surviving are five brothers, Earl, of Canton RD; Ray, with whom she resided; Will, of Wellsboro RD; Fred of New York City, and Ralph of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and two sisters, Mrs. Frank Slade, of St. Cloud, Fla., and Mrs. Leon Buckley, of Elmira Heights, N.Y.  Service will be held at 2 p.m. tomorrow in the Kleese funeral home, Canton.  Burial will be in Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

RAY B. BENEDICT, 87, Troy RD 3, formerly of Canton, died early Monday, Dec. 15, 1975 at the Troy Community Hospital following a lengthy illness.  He was born in Canton Sept. 19, 1888, son of Henry and Jennie Shaespeare Benedict.  Mr. Benedict was a self-employed carpenter in the Canton area for many years.  He was a member of the Canton Conservative Baptist Church.  Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Josephine Buckley of Ithaca; two brothers, Fred Benedict of Queens, N.Y., and Henry Earl Benedict of Canton RD 2.  A memorial service will be held at the Canton Conservative Baptist Church Sunday immediately following the worship service.  The Rev. James Bixler will officiate.  Burial will be at the convenience of the family.  Funeral arrangements are being made by the Ralph T. Kleese Funeral Home, Canton. (Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton) –Canton Independent Sentinel.

FREDERICK BLACK, 1849, Mr. Black came from London, England, where he had served as an apprentice to a tailor, and with the exception of three years from 1857 to 1859, he had resided here and followed the trade of merchant tailor, toiling diligently from early morning and often times late at night, hardly …. For enjoying a vacation and it was only a week ago that he gave up the business.  He complained about not feeling well and in a short time was taken suddenly home and suffered a stroke of apoplexy which virtually paralyzed him; he lingered in this conditions for a few days and peacefully died Sunday evening.  He was born in Cavan, Ireland, in 1824; his father was a member of Queen Victoria’s Legion.  Mr. Black married for his first wife Mary Mulligan at Hay Market, and it was in her father’s house that the celebrated order of Orangemen was formed.  Two children were born to them, one dying in infancy, and William, who still survives and lives at Canton.  Mr. Black served seven years as apprentice to a tailor in London and when he first began to learn his trade he received 27 cents a day.  He came to this country in 1849, in a sailing vessel which took him four weeks and he landed in Philadelphia.  He made his was across the state of Pennsylvania by the old canal by the way of Harrisburg and came from Williamsort to Ralston by the old tramroad and thence to Canton by the old stage coach line.  He married his second wife, Sally Porter, in 1852, and two sons were born to them, Frederick B., who now lives in Elmira, and Charles, who lives in Canton.  He served in the 13th Pennsylvania Militia in 1863 when Lee made his invasion into Maryland.  Mr. Black was a sterling, upright man and one of those men of whom they say “That the community is better for having such a citizen live within its borders.”  He was faithful to his duties and friends and highly esteemed by all.  –Canton Independent Sentinel. (Born Jan. 1, 1826 (Tombstone) d. 12 FEB 1905 Canton, PA, Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton)

WILLIAM BLACK died at his home on Minnequa Avenue, Monday afternoon, December 1, 1924, aged 78 years and 21 days.  Funeral services were held at the house this (Thursday) afternoon with interment in the Main Street Cemetery.  He had been sick for about six weeks with ailments incident to old age and he is survived by his wife and one daughter, Nelle M. Black at home.  William Black was born in County Armagh, Ireland and came to this country with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred M. Black, when three years of age.  When the call came in 1861 he enlisted in Company D, 106th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry and served until June 30, 1865.  During his slightly more than four years service he took part in practically all of the battles fought by the army of the Potomac, the most notable being Ball’s Bluff, Gettysburg, Petersburg and Antietam.  He saw the surrender of Lee at Appotomax and took part in the grand review of the Union armies at Washington, marking the close of the war.  Laying aside his musket and assuming the civilian garb, the ring of his hammer on the blacksmith’s anvil sounded a cheery song of industry for many years.  Honesty, industry and frugality enabled him to amass a competence and for the past fifteen years he had retired from the harder part of a blacksmith’s work but retained the old shop until just recently.  He had been prominent as a member of Ingham Post, No. 91, Grand Army of the Republic, from its organization and seldom missed a meeting, and his greatest pleasure in life was to attend any soldiers’ reunion where he could meet his old comrades and talk over the stirring scenes and conflicts of his youth.  Honest, upright, companionable, cheerful to the last, he faced the final roll call as unswerving as when he faced his country’s foes, and surrendered only after a long siege.  One more of the old veterans of the Civil War gone!  -Canton Independent Sentinel

MARTIN L. BOCKUS of 10 S. Minnequa Ave., Canton died Oct. 21, 1976 at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre.  He was born in Lycoming Co. Nov. 6, 1889.  He was a retired operator for the Pennsylvania Railroad.  Mr. Bockus was a member of the Canton Church of Christ Disciples.  He is survived by a brother-in-law, Claude Williams of Canton and several nieces and nephews.  Funeral and committal services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. from the Morse Funeral home, 12 E. Main St., Canton with the Rev. Duane Taylor officiating.  Burial will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

BRIGGS - Parsons – In Elmira, N. Y. June 4th, Mrs. Anna Parsons, widow of the late Elder James Parsons, in the 80th year of her age.
Obituary:  Mrs. Parsons was the daughter of Deacon Jabes Briggs, and was born in Wooster, Mass, August 5th 1794.  At the age of ten years she gave her heart to the Savior, and from that period her life was devoted to his service.  When about 27 years of age she was united in marriage to Eld. James Parsons, a young Baptist Minister of Boston.  Elder Parsons was soon after their marriage employed by the New York Baptist Convention to labor as a Missionary in South Western New York and North Western Pennsylvania.  In this work of toil and hardship, which occupied a number of years, Mrs. Parsons proved a faithful and efficient helper.  From a child she made the scriptures her study, and possessing a mind unusually strong and vigorous, she was peculiarly qualified to be a teacher and the wife of a minister of the Gospel. She became the mother of eight children, five of whom are now living.  In 1854, by the death of Elder Parsons she was left a widow, and during the remainder of her life she lived with her children, and for the past twelve years in Elmira, N.Y.  After an illness which lasted nearly three months, she was at 3 o’clock in the afternoon of June 4th, called home to rest, with a full trust and confidence in that God who had been her stay and support through a long life; she manifested no terror at the approach of the grim messenger death, but cheerfully yielded up her life to Him who gave it.  Her remains were brought to this place, and on the 6th inst. She was buried by the side of her husband.

By the Veterans records, James is buried in Main Street Cemetery, so I would suppose she is buried with her husband.  It is to bad that so many tombstones and records were destroyed at the Main Street Cemetery.  My Great-Great-Grandmother is buried there also but her tombstone is missing. PMG

During his active life he was in business, conducting Canton’s first meat market.  His service to the community included seven years on the boro council, part of which time he was treasurer; financial secretary of the Methodist Church for fourteen years, and treasurer for seven years; commander, quartermaster and chaplain of Ingham Post, Grand Army of the Republic.  For some time he has been enjoying a well earned rest, but his happiness was not entirely derived from memories of old times.  Since the death of Mrs. Brown, eleven years ago, he has made his home with his niece, Mrs. Gordon Stover, and her thoughtful care made it possible for him to attend Grand Army Encampments and reunions of his comrades.  Since the disbanding of Ingham Post, he was considered as one of the “Buddies” by Leroy G. Clark Post, American Legion, and was an important part of heir gatherings.  His death removes the last remaining Civil War veteran in Canton and vicinity. “Uncle Rufus” as he was known by hundreds of friends, old and young, will not be forgotten in this generation, many of whom will tell their children and grandchildren with pride, that they once knew a “real Civil War Veteran.”  The funeral will be held Saturday at one o’clock, from his late home.  The body will then be taken to the Methodist Church, where until two o’clock friends may view the remains.  A military funeral will be held at two o’clock, with the American Legion furnishing a guard of honor,  Interment will be made in Main Street Cemetery.  Rev. L. A. Guiles will be the officiating clergyman. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

ALFRED E. BULLOCK, 86, a resident of the Bradford County Manor, formerly of Sullivan Street, Canton, died Wednesday, April 1, 1987 at the manor.  Born August 19, 1900, at Canton, he was a son of Charles E. and Georgia Catlin Bullock.  He was a retired fruit grower.  He was a member of the Canton Moose Lodge #429.  Surviving are three nieces, Mrs. Ruth R. Garrett of Douglasville, Pa., Mrs. Geraldine Knapp, of Reedsville, Pa., and Mrs. Donna Ziel of Glendale, Calif.; nephew, Charles Bullock of Glendale; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Dorothy Bullock of Glendale.  Funeral services will be Friday at 11 a.m. from the Morse & Kleese funeral Home, 40 North Center St., Canton, with the Rev. Donald Garrett, pastor of the Shillington Church of Christ (nephew-in-law) and William T. McNett, lay speaker, officiating.  Interment will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  Friends may call at the funeral home from 10-11 a.m., Friday.  Memorials may be directed to the Canton Moose Lodge Building fund in his memory. –Towanda Daily Review.

 For a time he was a partner in the W. W. Gleckner and Sons Co., harness manufacturing business.  Mr. Bulluck was a strong supporter of the Republican part and took a keen interest in community affairs.  Prominent in fraternal affairs he was a member of Canton Lodge No. 425, F&AM and Canton Commandery, No. 64, Knights Templar.  On February 4, 1891, he married Miss Georgia Catlin of Canton who survives him as do three son, Gerald H. of Belleville, Pa.; Attorney C. Arthur of Canton; Alfred of Blossburg; and one daughter, Miss Helen C. Bullock of San Jose, Calif. –Canton Independent Sentinel.  (Buried Main St. Cemetery.)

GEORGE E. BULLOCK, 70, of 48 N. Minnequa, Canton, died Saturday at the Troy Community Hospital.  Mr. Bullock was an organist in theatres for a number of years.  He also was an advance agent for a number of circuses for several years.  In later years he continued the insurance business of his father, was a justice of the peace, and assessor in Canton Borough.  Before his retirement he represented the Manning Advertising Company of Schenectady, N.Y.  He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church at Canton.  Mr. Bullock was born Dec. 15, 1898, the son of Jesse and Anna Dent Bullock.  He is survived by an aunt, Grace Dent, of Canton, and several cousins.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Morse Funeral Home in Canton.  The Rev. C. Leonard Bergman, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Canton officiated and burial was in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

HELEN BULLOCK, 84, of San Jose, Calif., died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 1976.  She was born in Rochester, N.Y., Sept. 22, 1892, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Bullock.  She was a retired librarian of 35 years at the San Jose State Teachers College, San Jose.  She was a graduate of Goucher College in Baltimore, Md., the University of Michigan and San Jose State College.  Miss Bullock was a member of the University of Women’s Club of San Jose State Teachers College, the Sierra Club, the Audubon Society, the Alumni Association of San Jose State Teachers College and the United Methodist Church of San Jose.  Her survivors include two brothers, Gerald C. Bullock of Belleville, Pa., and Alfred E. Bullock of Canton; a sister-in-law, Dr. Dorothy Dann Bullock of Canton; one nephew and three nieces.  Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Morse Funeral Home, Canton. –Canton Independent Sentinel. (Buried Main Street Cemetery.)

CARROZZA Frank S. Carrozza
Canton – Frank S. Carrozza, 49, of 19 East Carson Street, was found dead in bed at 6:30 am today, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 1961. A physician said death was due to a heart attack. He was a member and past governor of the Moose Lodge. He operated Frank and Nick's Mobil Service Station. Surviving are his wife, the former Katherine Keagle; two daughters, Mrs. Earl Nichols, of Canton, and Miss Jane Carrozza, at home, and one grandson.  (Born January 7, 1912)  (Note:  1st husband of Katherine Keagle Jones)

CLARK Laura (SRGP 47837) Canton, PA. – d. 03 JUL 1891
Mrs. Laura M. Strait
The sad event of the death of Mrs. Laura M. CLARK Strait occurred at the residence of L. R. Gleason, Esq. in this village on the morning of July 3d.  Mrs. Strait had just completed her arrangements and was waiting to take the next train to accompany her daughter to her new home in Pueblo, Col., when she was taken suddenly ill and took instead, that long journey to that land “from which no traveler returns.”  She was the daughter of Josephus Clark, who emigrated in an early day to this state from Mass., and was one of the pioneer settlers of Tioga county, having settled in Rutland where the subject of this sketch was born, May 18, 1824.  She was the eldest of a family of eleven children, two, only, of which survive her, Mrs. Mary A. CLARK Corey, of Stuttgardt, Arkansas, and Mrs. Helen M. CLARK Ingraham, wife of Capt. D. P. Ingraham, of Elmira, N. Y.  She was the widow of S. S. Strait, late of this place, and sister to B. W. Clark, so well and favorably known among the early business men of Canton, whose widow is now the esteemed wife our fellow townsman, L. R. Gleason.  Mrs. Strait was also a sister of the late Julia A. CLARK Humphrey, widow of Dr. A. Humphrey, formerly of Tioga county, Pa.   She leaves of her own family to mourn their great loss, one son, Samuel J. Strait, living near this village, and one daughter, Mrs. D. C. Moran, now of Pueblo, Colorado, where the sympathy of her many friends follow her.  Mrs. Strait was fast nearing the allotted age of man, having well entered her 68th year, and in good works was fully ripe for the harvests.  She was an acceptable member of the First Baptist church of this place, having united with that society under the pastorate of the Rev. Mr. McGowen.  Although a great sufferer during the few days of her illness, yet she died like a child going to sleep, with perfect trust in her Savior, and the sweet, beautiful expression on her countenance as she lay in her casket showed that in her heart could be malice towards none.  Though strong in character she was quiet and retiring in her disposition, devoting her great energy to the welfare and happiness of her family, and as a friend remarked, “She was a blessing to any household.”  In the pioneer days of our country, before the age of railroads, her father took her in his own carriage to Detroit, Mich., to give her the benefit of a more extended and liberal education than could be obtained in the then comparative wilds of Northern Penna.  After her marriage to Mr. Strait they settled on a farm near Troy, and later moved to Canton, where Mr. Strait with her brother, B. W. Clark, founded the first bank established in this place, and which place has since been her home.  Her friends mourn her but not without hope, for they know that all is peace beyond the river.
 

 During World War II, she taught at Canton High School, was the co-chairman of Civil Defense, and county chairman of War Savings.  Active in the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs, she served in many capacities including president and parliamentarian.  She served as president of the National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) from 1959 to 1963.  Aware of the therapeutic value of music, she helped set up the Conservatory for the Blind.  Two Dorothy Dann Bullock Music Therapy scholarships given annually in her name recognize her dedication to music therapy.  Two additional national monetary awards are given in her honor each year, one in piano and one in piano composition.  For years, she and her husband went to Chautauqua summers and became interested in its development and cultural benefits.  While she was president of the NFMC, the Music Building at Chautauqua Institute was erected by the Northeastern Region of the NFMC and dedicated in her honor.  Several years later, in 1968, she was chosen by the trustees of Chautauqua to be president of the Chautauqua Women’s Club.  This position involved public relations, planning afternoon programs and hosting visiting artists at the spacious club house.  She had many achievements and awards.  In 1963, she was appointed by President Kennedy as a member of the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the Kennedy Center (National Cultural Center), President Nixon’s nomination, with consent of the Senate, designated her as a representative on the United States Delegation to the 1972 United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Conference, which she attended in Paris, France.   She received honorary doctorates from three universities.  She is listed in “Who’s Who in America.” “Who’s Who in Music – International,” “Who’s Who in American Women” and Dictionary of International Biography.  She was a member of the honorary musical society Sigma Alpha Iota.  Among her many awards and honors are “Honorary vice-governor of the State of Oklahoma,” “Kentucky Colonel” and honorary “Coonoluftee Indian Villager” as the “Maker of Songs.”  She is survived by her son Charles Bullock, and her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Dr. Harry Ziel, all of Glendale, Calif.  She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and their spouses; 12 great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.  Services will be conducted at the Canton Ecumenical Parish, 53 N. Center St., Canton, at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 10, with Pastor Nancy Lee Goff officiating.   Calling hours will be from noon to 2 p.m. at the church.  Interment will follow in the Main Street Cemetery in Canton.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home of Canton.  -Canton Independent Sentinel.

 

DOANE Elmer E. Doane

A dispatch from Cascade Canyon, Colorado, states that Elmer E. Doane was accidentally shot and killed last week Tuesday, and that the remains would be brought East for burial.  Mr. Doane was a native of Morris township in this county, and he attended school in this borough for several years.  He moved to Canton, where he was employed in a bank.  Eleven years ago he went to Topeka and was a clerk in a bank for some time.  Last spring he went to Cascade Canyon, a summer resort at the foot of Pike’s Peak, to take charge of a large hotel owned by Osage City capitalists.  He expected the remain only for the summer, but at the request of the company he accepted an offer to stay a year, and intended returning to Osage this week to ship his household goods.  In a letter to her sister, written two weeks ago, Mrs. Doane said that Elmer expected a party of tourists last week, and that he would join them in a hunt.  It is supposed that the accident occurred while they were in the woods.  (Tuesday, October 14, 1891, The Wellsboro Agitator, Wellsboro, Tioga Co, Pa.)

 

Elmer E. Doane

The funeral of the late Elmer E. Doane was held at Canton last week Monday.  The particulars of his accidental death are given in the Colorado Springs Gazette of the 7th instant.  It seems that Mr. Doane was killed by the discharge of a shotgun in the hands of 14 year old son.  The father and son were hunting on the Pike’s Peak road, three miles from Cascade, Col.  The lad shot a grouse in the bush and started after it, when Mr. Doane spoke to him.  The boy turned with the double-barreled gun across his arm and his finger on the trigger.  The gun went off, and the charge struck Mr. Doane in the face and some of the shot penetrated his brain.  The boy was frantic with grief, but his father indicated by motions that he should go for assistance.  He did so, and when the relief party arrived they found that Mr. Doane was dead.  He was 38 years of age.  (Tuesday, October 21, 1891, The Wellsboro Agitator, Wellsboro, Tioga Co, Pa.)

 

TRUMAN MILTON FASSETT died at the Fassett homestead on Main Street, in this borough, Friday afternoon, August 27, 1920, aged 76 years.  Funeral services were held at the house Monday afternoon, the funeral sermon being delivered by Rev. George A. Briggs, of Buffalo, N.Y.  Interment was made in the Fassett plot in the Main Street Cemetery.  Mr. Fassett was the son of Truman Fassett, one of the prominent citizens and large landholders of Canton in a past generation.  He was born in Elmira, and came to Canton with his parents where 16 years of age.  He was for many years the head bookkeeper and confidential clerk of the large mercantile firm of Burk, Thomas U Co., and when the firm retired from business Mr. Fassett devoted his time to the real estate business and to buying and selling of cattle.  Of a modest and retiring disposition, he shrank from anything that smacked of publicity, but it came to be a well-known fact that no deserving charity was allowed to go without a generous check from Mr. Fassett, providing his contribution was not made public.  His many charities and his many acts of kindness to those in distress will never be fully known.  Although not a member of the church he was for many years a member of the board of trustees of the Baptist church, and gave careful attention to their finances.  He had been a member of the Philadelphia Chapter of Sons of the Revolution for fifty years, and had been a member of the board of trustees of the Green Free Library since its foundation.  He is survived by his wife, by one daughter Miss Helen Fassett, at home and one son.  Ellison Fassett of Brockwayville, this state.

HARRY C. GATES, Canton banker, died at the Corning Hospital last Wednesday night (July 6, 1938) at the age of 62 years, following an illness of several months duration.  He is survived by his widow and two daughters; Mrs. Maynard Gurnsey, of Corning, and Mrs. Donald Benson of Mansfield, and a sister, Mrs. Sarah Crockett, of State College.  At the time of his death hew was Vice President of the First National Bank of Canton and a trustee of the Robert Packer Hospital, in Sayre.  He was a graduate of Canton High School and Lafayette College, where he was outstanding in athletic activities.  During his entire career it was seldom that he missed a local football game and availed himself of all opportunities to witness collegiate games in this section.  In 1898, when the Spanish-American War was declared, Mr. Gates was one of the first to enlist and served throughout that struggle.  For eighteen years Mr. Gates was President of the School Board and always devoted much of his time to educational activities.  He was known far and wide as a lover of dumb animals and an admirer of “Blooded” stock.  About twenty years ago he started breeding thoroughbred Holsteins and succeeded in placing the Canton area “on the map”.  He always had a little Boston Bull terrier at his side and was enthusiastic about the work of the S.P.C.A.  Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon from his home, with interment in the Main Street Cemetery, Rev. W. J. Cartmell officiated.

GRANTIER –MRS. ELLEN NEWMAN died at the home of her son, Lewis at Tampa, Fla. Saturday Feb. 6, 1909 of heart trouble.  Mrs. Newman was well known in Canton and vicinity having lived here for many years.  About a year ago she and her son, Jay removed to Tampa to make her home with another son, Lewis.  The remains accompanied by her son, Jay arrived here Thursday afternoon and taken to the home of her niece, Mrs. Lee Brooks on Union Street, where the funeral services were held Friday morning at 10:30 o’clock conducted by her pastor, Rev. H. C. Broughton.  Buried in Main Street Cemetery, Canton, PA.

GRANTIER - Lacelle Grantier -died at his home at Alba, Pa. at 6 o’clock on Wednesday morning. He was sixty years of age. He is survived by one son, Robert Grantier at home; also a grandson, Robert Jr. Funeral services will be held at his late home on Saturday afternoon with burial in the Main Street cemetery at Canton. The Rev J. W. Faust of Canton Methodist Episcopal Church will officiate.

ROBERT D. GRANTIER
 Robert D. Grantier, 63, of RD 1, Canton, died March 15, 1990 at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre. He was born September 13, 1926 in Canton Township, the son of Robert L. and Ethel Dixon Grantier. He was a supervisor at Swayze Folding Box Co. in Canton where he had been employed for over 43 years.  A 1944 graduate of Canton High School, he was a Navy veteran of World War II.  He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose #429, the Canton VFW #714, the Brooks-Flick American Legion Post #49, Troy and the Wheel Inn.  He served for 12 years on the Canton Area School Board and was a United Machinist Union president from 1964-66. Survivors are his wife of 43 years,  Oympia Iannitti; daughters, Mrs. Carol Rechel, Hughesville and Mrs. Joan Hendericks, Catawissa; a son, Robert W. of Troy; six grandchildren. Funeral services were held March 17 at the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home in Canton with the Rev. Jasper Smith officiating and burial to be in Main Street Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 515 S. Main St., Athens, PA 18810. (TGR, Thursday, March 22, 1990)

ROBERT L. GRANTIER age 67 of Canton RD 2, Penna. Thursday, June 1, 1972 at home.  Friends may call at the Morse Funeral home, Canton, Penna. Sunday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.  Funeral service there Monday at 2 p.m., Rev. William Hicks officiating.  Interment in Main St. Cemetery, Canton.  Survived by son, Robert of Canton; three grandchildren.  He was a member of the Alba Church of Christ and the Loyal Order of Moose.  He was employed at Swayze Folding Box Company where he retired in 1971.  –Elmira Sunday Telegram 6/4/1972

GREENO –MRS. BATHSHEBA GREENO SPAULDING was born in Rutland, Vt., Dec. 16, 1819.  In her eighth year the family moved to Millport, N.Y., and in her fourteenth year to Troy,, and later in All…  Dec. 13, 1849 she was married to Amasa Darwin Spaulding, who departed this life two years ago in October.  To this union was born three daughters, who are still living, namely, Mrs. W. T. Lawrence, Mrs. J. O. Whitman and Mrs. L. E. Manley  all of Canton.  Sister Spaulding after a short illness fell asleep Nov. 18, 1905 at the age of 85 years 11 months and 2 days.  At the age of nineteen years she became a christian under the preaching of Rev. Silas E. Shepard and for almost 67 years remained a faithful follower of Christ.  In 1871 they moved to Canton where she became actively engaged in church work, becoming a member of the Church of Christ.  The funeral services were conducted in the church by Rev. G. A. Brady.  The text, Rev. II, 7, was of her own choosing being found, written out in her Bible, after her death.  Her death marks the end of a strong christian character…. –Canton Independent Sentinel  (Parents Emerson and Anna Coe Greeno.  Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton, PA)

GREENO –MRS. BATHSHEBA GREENO SPAULDING was born in Rutland, VT., Dec. 18, 1819.  In her eight year the family moved to Millport, N.Y., and in her fourteenth year to Troy, and later to Alba.  Dec. 13, 184 she was married to Amasa Darwin Spaulding, who departed this life two years ago in October.  To this union was born three daughters, who are still living, namely, Mrs. W. T. Lawrence, Mrs. J. O. Whitman and Mrs. L. E. Manley all of Canton.  Sister Spaulding after a short illness fell asleep Nov. 18, 1905 at the age of 85 years, 11 months and 2 days.  At the age of nineteen years she became a Christian under the preaching of Rev. Silas E. Shepard and for almost 67 years remained a faithful follower of Christ.  In 1871 they moved to Canton where she became actively engaged in church work, becoming a member of the Church of Christ.  The funeral services were conducted in the church by Rev. C. A. Brady.  The text, Rev. II, 7, was of her own choosing being found, written out in her Bible, after her death.  Her death marks the end of a strong Christian character who for a generation has been closely connected with the work of the church and the religious influences of the community.

GUINTER –MRS. NELLE ROBERTS, 92, of 10 South Minnequa Ave., Canton died March 21, 1984 at her home.  She was born Aug. 27 1891 in Proctor, Lycoming, County, Pa., one of eight children of Elmer E. and Della Jane (McHenry) Guinter.  Mrs. Roberts was a receptionist for the late Dr. J. Gordon Zink for several decades, retiring after she was 80 years old.  She also operated a tourist home at 39 N. Center Street in Canton.  She was also a member of the Canton Ecumenical Parish and Ladies of Rebekah, Canton Lodge.  Mrs. Roberts is survived by a sister, Betty Wilcox of Canton and a brother, Ray Guinter of Canton.  Also surviving are nieces and nephews and two very special friends, Jane Wilston and Joyce Bailey.  She was predeceased by her husband Harry Roberts on July 2, 1964.  Friends are invited to call at the Morse-Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton on Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m.  The funeral service will be held there Friday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Benjamin F. Husted, pastor of the Canton Baptist Church officiating.  Interment will be in the Main Street Cemetery.  The family gratefully declines flowers, but donations may be made to the Canton Ambulance Association or the Canton Community Nursing Service in Mrs. Roberts’ memory.  –Towanda Daily Review   (Note: newspaper listed her as a daughter of Elmer E. and Della Jane Guinter McHenry.  It was in error.)

NELLE McHENRY GUINTER - ROBERTS, NELLE  Services for Nelle Roberts, 92, Canton, were held March 23 at Morse & Kleese Funeral Home with Rev. Benjamin Husted officiating.  Interment was in Main Street Cemetery. Mrs. Roberts died March 21, 1984 at her home.  She was born Aug. 27, 1891 in Proctor, Lycoming Cty., daughter of Elmer  E. and Della Jane Guinter McHenry.  She was a receptionist for the late Dr. J. Gordon Zink for several decades, retiring after she was 80 years old.  She operated a tourist home in Canton and was a member of Canton Ecumenical Parish and Lady Canton Rebekah Lodge.  She is survived by a sister, Beth Wilcox and brother Ray Guinter of Canton; several nieces and nephews; very special friends, Jane Wilston and Joyce Bailey.  (TGR March 29, 1984)

ELIZABETH HICKOK, the sixteen year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thaddeus S. Hickok, died December 27, 1918, of influenza.  Besides her parents, she is survived by one brother, Thaddeus.  The funeral was held Monday afternoon from her parents’ home and interment was made in the Main Street Cemetery.

THADDEUS HICKOK, age 62, of 39 Troy St., Canton, Pa., died unexpectedly after a brief illness, Tuesday morning, February 29, 1972.  Friends may call at the Ralph T. Kleese Funeral Home, 40 North Center St., Canton, Pa., on Thursday 3 to 5 and 7 to 9.  Funeral will be held there Friday 11 a.m. with Rev. Ralph R. Knight, retired minister, officiating.  Burial will be in Main St. Cemetery in Canton.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Innes Hose Co.  His survivors are his wife, Marjorie, two daughters, Mrs. Charles (Jeanne) Zeigler of Annandale, Virginia and Mrs. William (Joyce) Conwell of Phillipsburg, New Jersey, three step-daughters, Connie and Bena Eckman and Mrs. Willard Herbert of Pittston, Pa. and two step-sons, Chuckie Eckman and Alana Williams of Canton, three grandsons and four step-grandchildren and several cousins.  He was a life member of the Innes Hose Co. and has served as fire chief for the Canton borough for fifteen years.  He was on the board of directors of the Canton Ambulance Assn. since its organization in 1951.  He was a member of the Canton Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge No. 429.  He was also a member of the PA Tavern Owner’s Assn. for the past 26 years, he has owned and operated Hickok’s Restaurant in Canton.  He was Republican committeeman and borough tax assessor for Canton.  He was a member of the Episcopalian Church of Canton.  Firemen will hold services at the funeral home Thursday 8 p.m.  –Elmira Star Gazette.

HILL – the funeral of Mrs. T. [Tracey]  O. Hollis [Christine Hill], an aged and respected Canton lady whose husband was formerly County Commissioner of Tioga County is to be held on Thursday. (Feb 10,1910)

HUNTINGTON –MRS. HANNAH SPAULDING, widow of the late Frank Spaulding, who departed this life some twenty years ago, died at the home of her grandson, Eugene Keltz in Canton Township, April 21, 1912.  Funeral services with interment in the Main Street Cemetery.  Mrs. Spaulding was aged 91 years, four months and 16 days.  Living in the same house with her was her daughter, her grandson, her great grandson and a great-great-grandson.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

KEAGLE –KATHERINE ‘KATE’ JONES, 83, well known Canton resident, died November 10, 2001 while surrounded by her living family at Memorial Hospital in Towanda.  Born in October 31, 1918 in Canton, she was a daughter of the late Leon J. & Eleanor Parsons Keagle.  She lived her entire life in her beloved community of Canton and became known as the town historian, a position she inherited from her mother.  If anyone needed information about the town or the people who have lived there she had the answer.  She loved life and had many friends who will miss her bright smile and great sense of humor.  Mrs. Jones worked at Swayze Folding Box Co. and Canford Manufacturing for many years, but her two favorite jobs were waitressing at the Lantern and being the “Hostess with the Mostess” at the Canton Moose Club.  Her home was her castle filled with her treasures she had gathered over the 60 years she lived there.  She watched Carson Street from her “window of the worlds”, knowing who came and went at all times.  Her family was her prized possession.  She loved them all and looked forward to their visits.  To her brothers and sister she was Kate; to her nieces and nephews she was Aunt Kate; to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren she was Nan; and to Jay she was “Cake”.  No matter where she was she always wore a smile and had a quick remark to make.  She will be missed by many especially her family who loved her so much.  She was a member of the former St. James Episcopal church.  She was also involved in many area clubs and memberships including a 50-year member of the National Society of The Daughters of the American revolution; the WOTM Canton Lodge No. 981; Canton V.F.W. Post 417 Ladies Auxiliary; The Wheel Inn, Roaring Branch; Hamilton Club, Morris Run; Red Run Rod and Gun Club in Ralston and served as Historian for the Canton Alumni Association.  Surviving are her loving husband of nearly 37 years, Howard C. Jones; daughters and son-in-law, Margaret A. Nichols, Charlotte, MI; E. Jane (Dr. Donald) Stanton, Manitou Beach, MI and Sarasota, FL; grandsons and their spouses, James E. (Tracie) Nichols, Blue Springs, MO; Gregory F. (Doreen) Nichols, Dallas, TX; granddaughter and her spouse, Julie (Larry) Tkaczyk, Charlotte, MI; great-grandchildren, Zachary and Kathryn Nicholas and Nichols, Andrew and Austin Tkaczyk; brothers and sisters-in-law, roger “Bud” (Fran) Keagle and family, Charles and Edward; James (Audrey) Keagle and family, Mary Beth, Jeanne and Jon; sisters and a brother-in-law, Phyllis Jones and family, Kay and William and Lenore (Olen) Smith and family, Janna and Alaire; and two step-daughters.  In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her first husband of 23 years, Frank S. Carrozza in 1961; a son-in-law, Early E. Nichols; a brother-in-law, R. Lloyd Jones and a nephew, Richard D. Smith.  The funeral and committal service was held November 14 with Rev. Dean Walrath, pastor of the Canton Ecumenical Church, officiating.  A private burial will be held in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  The family suggests that memorials may be directed to the Western Alliance EMS P.O. box 13, Troy, PA or the Memorial Hospital Hospice, 1 Hospital drive, Towanda, PA in Mrs. Jones’ loving memory.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

LEON J. KEAGLE, Well Known Businessman, Dies, 79, 18 East Carson St., Canton, died at the Arnot-Ogden Memorial Hospital, Elmira, Tuesday morning, Dec. 18, 1973.  He was born in Arnot March 28, 1894, the son of Grant and Ida Mase Keagle.  He was a member of the St. James Episcopal Church, Canton, the Canton Masonic Lodge No. 415 F. and A.M., the Williamsport Consistory and the Irem temple.  He is a past member of the Canton Rotary Club.  Mr. Keagle was a graduate of Mansfield Normal School where he majored in music.  He organized a local quartet known as the “Jungletown Quartet” which was popular in this area during the 1930s.  They were featured on WENY radio several times.  He owned and operated a music store in Canton for over 55 years.  Mr. Keagle is survived by three daughters, Mrs. R. Lloyd (Phyllis) Jones, Mrs. Howard (Katherine) Jones and Mrs. Olen (Lenore) Smith, all of Canton; two sons, Roger M. Keagle, Owego and Col. James G. Keagle, DDS, Port Lewis, Wash.; a sister, Mrs. Ethel Holmes, Canton; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; several step-grandchildren and also several cousins.  Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2:30 at the Morse Funeral Home, 12 E. Main St., Canton with the Rev. Thomas Logston officiating.  Interment will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

 

KEAGLE Phyllis Pomeroy Keagle Jones

On the evening of Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011, Phyllis Pomeroy Keagle Jones, age 95 of Canton died quietly at the Sherwood Retirement Home.  She was born July 17, 1916 in Canton, Pa. at the Parsons family homestead, formerly 19 E. Carson Street. She was the first of five children born to Leon John Keagle and Eleanor Parsons Keagle.  During her early childhood she spent a great deal of time with her grandparents, Helen and Charles Parsons (Daddy Parsons) at the Carson Street homestead. The Keagle family lived on Troy Street, where the U.S. Post Office is today, until building the stone house across the street from the homestead in 1922.  One of her early memories was going out in the county with the family on Sundays to gather stones that were used to build the stone house. Her mother, Eleanor Parsons Keagle, designed the house and did the plans; her father-in-law, Grant Ulysses Keagle (Pap Keagle) did much of the carpentry work. She also remembered that her father, Leon John Keagle, traded a grand piano that he had rebuilt for the oak and walnut used to construct the doors and woodwork in the house.  Phyllis, being the oldest child, and having a mother who worked in the family business, the Keagle Music Store, did a lot of the cleaning, house work and caring for younger siblings. She took her responsibilities seriously. So much so that a poem written by Daddy Parsons about her states, "Phyllis Keagle nine years old, Has a tendancy to scold." Another household duty she took seriously was window washing. The neighbors were probably very nervous when they saw her standing on the outside window sill, sometimes three stories up, washing the outside of the windows!   She still found time to learn to play the piano, the viola and be an excellent student. Phyllis was a member of the first Girl Scout troop in Canton. She went on to achieve the highest award in Girl Scouting at that time, the Golden Eagle Award. As a result of her award, she attended Camp Andre, the National Girl Scout Camp. Her active participation in scouting continued until her daughter was out of high school.  Phyllis graduated from Canton High School in 1934. It was the middle of the depression and funds were tight, so she baby sat and cleaned houses while taking additional courses at Canton High School for one year.  In 1935 Phyllis went to Mansfield State College. She worked for the college president, Mr. James Morgan and his wife, at their home in exchange for room and board, while maintaining a very full academic schedule. As a gift for her senior year, her grandfather, Daddy Parsons, provided the funds to allow her to experience dormitory life. When she graduated in 1939, Phyllis was certified to teach Latin, French, English and history. She started teaching at Charleston Vocational High School, east of Mansfield, in the fall of 1939. She taught there for three years.  R. Lloyd Jones and Phyllis Keagle were married on June 6, 1942 at St. James Episcopal Church in Canton. They moved to his home in Shinglehouse, Pa. At that time he was the supervising principal of the Shinglehouse Schools. He was a widower with a daughter, Donna Jones. Phyllis not only became a full time housewife, but also an instant mother. On Sept. 29, 1943, their son, Roger Lloyd Jones was born, but died about six hours after birth. Their daughter, Katherine Eleanor Jones was born on Dec. 2, 1944 and their son, William Lloyd Jones, Jan. 8, 1948.  The next home of the Jones family was in Paxtang, a suburb of Harrisburg, Pa. They lived there four years while Lloyd Jones worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Phyllis was busy with her young family at this time and seemed to enjoy the suburban life style. They had many friends and entertained often. It was not uncommon for her to take the children on the city bus into Harrisburg to shop or have lunch with friends.  The next move for the family occurred in February 1953, when R. Lloyd Jones was appointed as the Pike County Superintendent of Schools, a position that he held for about 15 years. During the time in Milford, Phyllis was active in Girl Scouting, the Milford Garden Club, DAR, Church of the Good Shepherd (Episcopal), Order of the Eastern Star, PTA and actively supported the activities and interests of her children and husband. She was a model wife and mother. Her house was always clean and tidy, she made sure that her family was well fed and their needs met.  Phyllis took an increasing number of substitute teaching assignments, some for most of several school years, when her children were in high school. These were primarily in the English Department. It is certain that she monitored her children effectively during this period and was involved in their educations and school activities!  Lloyd and Phyllis moved back to her home town of Canton when Lloyd retired in 1967. They had purchased the Haywood property on Minnequa Hill in 1948, and for nearly 20 years had been working to prepare the house for their retirement. Unfortunately Lloyd's health was not good. He had one of the first triple bypasses ever performed and later had a long struggle with cancer. Phyllis cared for him through all of his illnesses, keeping accurate records to share with the visiting nurse.  During their retirement period Phyllis stayed active in the DAR- Bradford County Chapter, St. James Episcopal Church until it was closed and later St. Paul's in Troy. She also joined a quilting group.  She took over most of the care of two horses and a dog, shoveled snow and did all of her own housework.  They were fortunate enough to be able to travel to Germany to visit their son and grandchildren and were able to travel through much of Europe. They also made several trips to Las Vegas to visit their daughter.  R. Lloyd Jones died Jan. 2, 1988. Shortly after his death Phyllis had brain tumor surgery and then cataract surgery, from which she recovered quickly. Her step-daughter, Donna Jones Franklin died in May of 1989.  Phyllis continued to live in the Minnequa house until 2000 when her children encouraged her to move to the Sherwood Home. She maintained her home for the benefit of her children and other relatives, but lived at Sherwood's until her death on Sept. 24, 2011.  She is survived by a son William Lloyd Jones (Jill) of Fairfax, Va.; and daughter Katherine Peek (Floyd) of Moapa, Nev. and Pioche, Nev.; grandchildren Brian A. Jones (Stacey), Katherine Obernberger (Anton), Tammy Peek, Carl Peek, Sandra Franklin, Judy Franklin Mattingly (Matthew), Victor Franklin; 19 great-grandchildren; brothers Roger "Bud" Keagle and family Charles and Edward, James G. Keagle (Audrey), and family Mary Beth, Jeanne and Jon; sister Lenore Smith (Olen) and family Janna and Alaire; and niece, Jane Carrozza Stanton.  In addition to her parents, Phylllis was predeceased by her husband of 46 years R. Lloyd Jones; son Roger Lloyd Jones; step-daughter Donna Jones Franklin; sister Katherine Keagle Carrozza Jones; brother-in-laws Frank Carrozza and Howard C. Jones; sister-in-law Frances Keagle and nephew Richard D. Smith.  Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011 at the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 94 N. Center St., Canton with Fr. Han Vander Blink, rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, officiating. Interment immediately following in the Canton Main Street Cemetery.    Towanda Daily Review – September 27, 2011

 

KENNEDY –MRS. FRANCIS GRANTEER, died in her Alba home on Monday morning, April 14th, at the age of 81 years.  She is survived by her husband, Lazelle Granteer, a son, Robert; a grandson, Robert, two sisters, Mrs. R. H. Fleming, Troy, and Mrs. R. C. Piatt, Sayre, one brother, F. A. Kennedy, of Waterloo.  The funeral will be held from the home this Thursday, the Rev. F. W. Faust, officiating and burial will be in Canton Cemetery.  (Main Street Cemetery) –Canton Independent Sentinel.

CHARLES A. KRISE.  Death of Charles A. Krise Canton’s Oldest Business man.  Charles A. Krise was born in Wurtenburg, Germany, in 1827.  He learned the harness maker’s trade, and after he became a journeyman, following the custom of the times he traveled from place to place, perfecting himself in the work, and visiting many points of interest.  By a rare bit of good fortune he escaped the draft, the quota from his locality having been raised just before his name was called, and he came to this country before the next levy was made.  He did have an interesting war experience, however, having been induced by his employer to join the militia for the attack on Lucerne, Switzerland, and he took pleasure in relating his experiences on that expedition, which came so near being disastrous to life.  Two thousand men crossed the frontier, three hundred were drawn as a reserve force and 100 climbed the mountains and planted cannon against the city.  The governor of the city asked for four hours’ armistice, which was granted.  The time expired at 9 in the evening and by that time the governor had gathered a large force of mountaineers, who dressed like the invading army, surrounded the latter, who mistook, them for friends, and finally opened the attack, took 1600 prisoners and wounded many.  Mr. Krise was in charge of the provision wagon and when news of the disastrous ending of the expedition reached the reserves, they made their way back, often stopping to combat the pursuers.  Shortly after this exciting experience Mr. Krise came to this country, landing in New York in July, 1848.  There years later, on May 6, 1851, he was married at East Point to Miss Christina Gleckner, daughter of the late Jacob Gleckner.  Shortly after their marriage they moved to Canton, where they have since resided.  Four children were the result of this union, - G. F. Krise, wholesale coal dealer and insurance agent of this place; Miss Mary Krise of this place, W. C. Krise, a prominent grain merchant of Red Wing, Minn.; and A. E. Krise, who is an officer of one of the Strongest trust companies of Norfolk, Va.  The death of Mr. Krise which occurred on Saturday, Dec. 30, 1906, was the first break in the family circle.

KRISE Miss Mary- Canton, Dec 3-(1945), who would have been 90 years old on December 22, died at the Crowe Nursing Home in Canton Monday morning. Miss Krise was a member of the first graduating class of Canton High School, a talented musician and member of the Canton Presbyterian Church for a number of years and also at one time sang in its choir. Miss Krise organized the Beethoven Club of Canton, the oldest musical club in the town. She is survived by a brother, Albert Krise, of Norfolk, VA; three nephews, Ellsworth Krise, of Norfolk, Robert and Will D Krise of Canton.

IANNITTI –OLYMPIA ‘LIBBY’ GRANTIER, Canton RR 1, died unexpectedly on Thursday, April 25, 1996, at Robert Packer Hospital.  “Libby” as she was known to her area friends, was born in the Bronx, NY, daughter of the late John and Caroline (DeRensas) Iannitti.  A veteran of World War II, she was among the first Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) and held the rank of Seaman First Class in the US Navy.  Mrs. Grantier was a homemaker, loving wife, mother and grandmother.  She was a member of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, Charter Member of Women in the Military of America Memorial.  Minnequa Grange #754, Women of the Moose #981, Bradford County Heritage Association Museum, and the American Legion.  Survivors are her children, son Robert W. Grantier, Troy; daughters Carol Rechel, Hughesville; and Joan Hendricks, Catawissa; seven grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her loving husband of 43 years, Robert D. Grantier, who died March 15, 1990.  Calling hours were at the Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, Inc., Canton, on April 28 and 29, with a Prayer Vigil on April 29, which was followed by a memorial service conducted by WOTM #981 and a service by VFW Post #714.  A mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on April 29 at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church with the Rev. Bert Kozen officiating.  Interment was in the Main Street Cemetery.  Full military honors were provided by VFW Post #714.  Contributions may be made to the Canton War Memorial Swimming Pool restoration fund in Mrs. Grantier’s memory.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.
Canton, Bradford Co., PA

LINDLEY –MRS. FANNIE M. COLWELL – The funeral of Mrs. Fannie M. Colwell late of 764 Mt. Zoar Street will be held at the home of W. M. Foster at Canton, Pa., Saturday (May 19, 1928) at 2 p.m.  Burial in the (Main Street Cemetery) Canton, Pa.  –Elmira Star-Gazette 5/18/1928

MACINTYRE –MADELINE SPALDING, 85, of Canton RD 1, died Friday morning, July 22, 1977 at the Williamsport City Hospital.  She was born July 31, 1891 in McKinley, N.Y. the daughter of James and Elizabeth Hopple MacIntyre.  She was an active member in the First United Methodist Church of Canton and a member of the Canton Order of Eastern Star.  Her survivors include her husband, Horace A. Spalding; one son, John Spalding of Canton; one daughter, Mrs. Willard (Virginia) Bronson of Melbourne, Fla.; three brothers, Donald MacIntyre of Ames, N.Y., John MacIntyre of Canajoharie, N.Y. and Lewis MacIntyre of Nelliston, N.Y., one sister, Mrs. Clark Failing of Penney Farms, Fla.; and two grandchildren.  The funeral service will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the Morse Funeral Home, 12 E. Main St., Canton.  The Rev. Dr. Raymond D. Fravel, pastor of the Canton First United Methodist Church will officiate.  Interment will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

MANDEVILLE –MARY M. SCHAFFENAKER, 84, a resident of the Dar-Way Nursing Home in Estella, died Saturday, April 26, 1986.  She was formerly of 93 Lycoming St., Canton.  Mrs. Schaffenaker was born in September 1901 in Canton, a daughter of Eugene and Mary Jane Wightman Mandeville.  She was a member of the Canton Church of Christ (Disciples) and a former member of the Canton Village Improvement Association.  Surviving are a brother, Albert E. Mandeville of Lufkin, Texas, along with nephews and nieces, William and Evelyn Meade, Mary and Ralph Dickinson, Loretta and Theodore Chapman, all of Horseheads, N.Y., along with Albert E. Mandeville III, Jeanne and C. B. Burris, Mary Ellen and William Travis, Sue Ellen and Damon Southard, Julie and Douglass Shands, all of Texans; plus nephews and other cousins.   She was predeceased by her husband, Floyd E. on Sept. 19, 1974.  Friends may call at the Morse-Kleese Funeral Home, 40 North Center St., Canton, on Tuesday from 3:30 to 5 P.m. and 7 to until 8:30 p.m.  the funeral service will be held at the funeral home Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. with the Rev. David B. Morris, her pastor, officiating.  Interment will be in Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  Memorial donations may be directed to the Canton Ambulance Association. –Towanda Daily Review.

MARJORIE H. NEWELL, 85, of Canton RR 2 (Canton Twp.) died early Thursday morning, June 26, 1997 at the Troy Community Hospital.  Born July 22, 1911 in Blossburg, Pa., she was a daughter of the late Charles P. and Lillian Newell.  Marjorie was a graduate of Canton High School, Class of 1928.  She later graduated from Meeker’s Business School in Elmira, N.Y.  Miss Newell was employed by Iszards Department Store in Elmira until her retirement in 1976, serving a total of 45 years as a bookkeeper.  She was a member of the Canton Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ).  Surviving are a sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Donald A. Spencer of Canton; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Harold and Nina Terry of Mansfield, Pa., Charles and Maetilda Terry of Canton; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  She was preceded in death by two brothers, Liston and Jack Terry.  In was Marjorie’s request there be no calling hours.  A private funeral service will be held at noon, Sunday, June 29, 1997, at the Pepper funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton, with the Rev. Jasper Smith, retired Methodist minister officiating.  Interment will be held in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton, Pa.  The family suggests that memorials may be directed to a charity of one’s choice in Miss Newell’s memory.  –Towanda Daily Review.

EDWIN NEWMAN the oldest Odd Fellow in the United States, and probably the oldest member of the order in point of service in the whole world, died at the residence of his son, G. Ernest Newman, on Union Street, Friday evening, March 24, 1922, age 99 years, six months and 20 days.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, March 27, from the Newman home, the services being in charge of Canton Lodge, No. 321, I.O.O.F., and the interment in the Newman plot in the Main Street Cemetery.  Edwin Newman belonged to a family remarkable for longevity and for the retention of powers of mind and body far beyond that usually allotted to man.  His father, Elisha Newman, died at the age of 101 years, four months and 20 hays.  His grandfather, a soldier of the War of the Revolution, lived beyond the age of a hundred.  His brother, Walter Scott Newman, died four years ago at the age of 100 years, nine months and nine days.  Other members of the family have lived well beyond the nineties.  The subject of this sketch heard the story of the Wyoming massacre from the lips of a survivor, while stories of the War of the Revolution and the War of 1812 were told to him in his boyhood days by participants in the struggles.  He was born in what is known Wyoming County, but was then Luzerne, and came to Canton in 1847 to clerk in a store conducted by his brothers.  In October of that year he was initiated into the mysteries of Odd Fellowship in Canton Lodge, and has always been “in good standing” and for many years was the efficient secretary of the lodge.  He married Lois Spalding, the daughter of one of Canton’s oldest families, May 17, 1853, and for fifty-six years they lived happily together, she dying August 24, 1909.  Their four children all survive the father: George Ernest Newman, of Canton; Clyde Harding Newman, of Buffalo; Glen Garde Newman, of Olean; May Newman Sechrist of Canton.  Four grandchildren and one great-grandchild are living to perpetuate this remarkable family.  Edwin Newman held the office of postmaster of Canton on two different occasions, from 1860 to 1866 and from 1870 to 1875.  He had served his fellow citizens in various positions in the local government, and always in a careful and efficient manner.  For several years before his death he had been almost totally blind, but had retained his other faculties to a remarkable degree.  During the World War he had the papers read to him daily and frequently commented on the war news, making comparison between events of the Civil War, the Spanish War and the Mexican War.  Before the organization of the Republican Party he had been a Whig, but gave his political allegiance to the Republican Party on its organization, and voted for every Republican candidate for President from Freemont down to Harding.

WALTER SCOTT NEWMAN, OF Center Street celebrated his 100 birthday yesterday May 31.  He was born at Eaton, Wyoming county, May 31, 1816, the son of Elisha Newman who died at the age of 101 years, four months and twenty days.  His grandfather, Ezekiel Newman was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, fought under General Washington and died at an advanced age –just how old we cannot say at this time but he lived to be nearly if not quite one hundred years old.  Walter Scott Newman and his brother Samuel Newman came to Canton from Smithboro, N.Y. in 1846 and started a little store on the corner of what is now Lycoming and Sullivan streets, which is still known as the Newman Corner.  In 1849 when the discovery of gold in California set the country on fire, Walter Newman got the gold fever and made the journey across the continent by wagon train.  He did not personally engage in mining but he run supply stores in mining camps and grub staked miners for an interest in their findings.  In this business he was very successful, and returned to Canton in 1852 was a fortune of about one hundred thousand dollars.  He is probably the last survivor in Pennsylvania or New York or the thousands of men who crossed the plains in 18449.  On the return trip he came by Panama and his advent in to the quiet little hamlet of Canton was one that caused excitement.  Walt Newman has come back from California with a wagon load of gold passed from lip to lip and his fortune was multiplied many times over in popular report.  When he came back he and his brother built the four story wooden building at present standing on the “Newman corner” and established therein and “up to date” general store.  Its appointments were first class and the fact that a painter was imported from New York to decorate the interior gives a hint as to the magnificence of its finish.  When the interior was dismantled a few weeks ago to make room for Bunns Shoe store the gold lettering on the drawer pulls still bore testimony to the thoroughness of the New York artist.  One of the counter tops, that was rescued from the rubbish, was an inch and a half ----- plank thirty nine inches wide and fourteen feet long.  It was originally twenty feet long and some former occupant of the store had sawed off six feet.  The Newman store was some store in its day.  Walter Newman remained single until he had reached the half-century mark and it was not until 1866 that he married a Miss Artemisa Hicks.  To this union there was born one year later twin boys one whom died a few days later.  The remaining boy lived to be 13 years old, and his death so grieved his father that he became almost a recluse and has since lived in strict retirement, never seeking the companionship of men.  His wife survived until 1910 after which his nephew A. Scott Newman came to Canton to live with and care for the old man.  Scott Newman died a few months ago and since then Mrs. James S. Phillips, a daughter of Scott Newman has kept house for him.   Walter Scott Newman a resident of Canton died March 9, 1917 at the age of one hundred years nine months and nine days.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

OWEN –MRS. MARY OWEN GRIFFIN, who died at her residence in this place, September 10, 1901, was born in Orange County, N.Y., February 3, 1820.  Her father removed to this state when she was about 14 years of age.  In 1844 she was married to George W. Griffin.  They had five children as a result of this marriage.  Mrs. Philah Bristol, wife of George Bristol, living in this place, Prof. James O. Griffin, who is a Professor in Stanford University, California, Dr. George D. Griffin, who died in 1879, Harry E. Griffin and Alice J. Griffin, both living on the old homestead farm.  Mrs. Griffin left six grandchildren and two sisters survive her; Mrs. Jane Jones, of Elmira and Mrs. Harriet Robbins, of Covington.  Mrs. Griffin was permitted to see more years than are usually allotted to a human life, and during the most part of those years she was in the enjoyment of good health.  On July 11, 1894, she with her husband, very pleasantly celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage, their children and a large circle of friends being present to enjoy the occasion.  By the death of her husband, April 8, 1896, Mrs. Griffin was left a widow.  Since that time she has been kindly cared for by her children; her daughter Alice living with her in the old home.  During the last years she has been in quite feeble health.  Her age at the time of her death was 81 years, 7 months and 7 days.  She had been for many years a member of the Church of Christ in this place and was a devout Christian.  She was quiet and unassuming in manner; and yet earnest and active in the discharge of her duties to active in the discharge of her duties to her family, to the church and to the community.  She will long be remembered by her children as a tender and loving mother, by the church as a sincere and earnest worker for the cause of Christ, and by the community in which she lived for so many years.  She was a pleasant and genial neighbor, ever ready to minister to the wants of those in need of sympathy and help.  (Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton.)

VIRGINIA ALLISON OWEN, 80, a resident of Sycamore Manor, Montoursville, formerly of Canton, died Sunday, September 10, 1995.  Miss Owen was born in Canton, September 19, 1914, daughter of the late Herrick T. and Mary (Allison) Owen.  She graduated from the former Mansfield; was a homemaker and a member of the Covenant Central Presbyterian Church, Williamsport, PA; and a past member of the former Presbyterian Church in Canton.  There are no immediate survivors.  Graveside services were held September 12, at the Main street Cemetery, Canton, PA with Rev. Ronald Beistline, pastor of the Canton Ecumenical Church, officiating.  Arrangements were under the direction of Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, Inc., Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

OWENS – ANNE O. SMITH age 74 of Canton, RD 2 Pa., at the home of her son, Olin, Thursday, Jan. 20, 1972.  Friends may call at the Morse Funeral Home, Canton Saturday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., the Rev. C. David Jones.  Burial Main St. Cemetery, Canton.  Survived by son, Olin of Canton RD 2, Pa.; two grandchildren, Mrs. Dennis Landon of Chicago, Ill., Miss Alair Smith of Canton; brothers, Frederick and Lester Owens, both of Elmira; niece.  She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Canton, Pa.; member of the Order of Eastern Star, Canton; owned and operated a grocery store in Canton for 37 years, retired 1964.  –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/21/1972

In Memoriam: Florence I. PARSONS
Florence I. Parsons, departed this life on the morning of August 5, 1873.  For nearly three years she was in delicate health, and for the last six months it was evident that her physical nature was fast yielding to the certain progress of disease.  She lived nearly all her life – a life of twenty years and four months – in the present home of her parents, within sound of the rippling waters, whose constant music was, to her, so soothing in her last declining days.
After the organization of the Canton Union Graded School upon its present plan, Florence soon took a prominent position among the advanced students of the school, and had the nature of her health permitted she would, more than probably, have been a member of the Class of Graduates of 1873.  She is spoken of by her classmates as having possessed a mind strong, clear and active.  Had health and life continued, she undoubtedly for the years to come would have been an ornament in society and a blessing to the community favored with her presence.  But otherwise hath it transpired, and we must not murmur.
Her modest and unassuming disposition together with her excellencies of mind and heart, secured to herself the love and friendship of many; and all who came within the circle of her acquaintance spoke of her in terms of praise; yet, with all, perhaps, in consequence of gradually failing health, she was more especially known as a true, faithful sister, a loving devoted daughter.
Four years ago she gave her heart to God, and engaged in His cause by uniting with the Baptist Church of this borough.  In living, she exemplified the Christian religion and in dying, she most fully illustrated the gift of sustaining grace, the comfort and consolation which comes to the followers of Jesus, even amid the ravages of a wasting disease.  During her last days she spoke of approaching dissolution with calmness and Christian confidence; she remarked to her former Sunday School Teacher that “Heaven was very near” and she frequently told her mother that all was well respecting the future beyond.
A few hours before her death, she presented to her sister and brothers each a bible with her own hands, and with words of advice and admonition, such as they will never forget.
During all her sickness she uttered no word of murmuring, during all her suffering she was patient and uncomplaining; thus, with no regrets for the past, but with an abiding confidence for the future she, in the dim grave of the morning exchanged the shades of time for the glory of eternity.

“So fades a summer cloud away;
So sinks the gale when storms are o’er;
So gently shuts the eye of day;
So dies a wave along the shore.
A holy quiet reigns around,-
A calm which life no death destroys;
And naught disturbs that peace profound
Which her unfettered soul enjoys.”
H. C. M.

Dr. James W. PARSONS Obit
Dr. James W. Parsons, retired, died age 82 years in his rooms at the Hotel Packard where he had lived for three years.  Dr. Parsons taught in district schools and later graduated in medicine and practiced as a physician in Canton for more than 40 years.  He had served as Burgess of Canton and as a school director and a director of the First National Bank of Canton.
N.B.  James Williams Parsons M.D. graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI.  He died on December 6, 1937. - DFS

ASA PRATT – Melancholy Suicide – Asa Pratt of Canton Township committed suicide on Wednesday morning last while laboring under mental aderation.  He left his house quite early and went to his grist mill, which is near his house and was found soon after dead, hanging by a rope which was fastened to a joice.  He had apparently sat on a joice while he adjusted the rope around his neck and tied it to another joice and then dropped off.  Mr. Pratt was a much respected citizen.  He has for several years shown occasional symptoms of insanity and frequently talked of killing himself and on one occasion attempted to shoot himself.  The family and friends are plunged into the deepest grief by his melancholy and tragical end.  –Bradford Reporter 10/5/1865 (Buried Main Street Cemetery)

REED –MRS. MARTHA E. ROSS, 79 of 56 North Center Street, Canton died Saturday evening, April 8, 1961 at her home following an extended illness.  Mrs. Ross who was the widow of Sullivan J. Ross was born in Elkland Twp., Sullivan Co., April 15, 1881, the daughter of Robert and Mary S. Mullen Reed.  She was a member of the Canton Church of Christ, Disciples and is survived by a step-daughter, Mrs. Charles Hanna of Orlando, Fla.; a brother, Charles F. Reed of Pine City, N.Y., RD 1; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  Funeral services were held at the Kleese Funeral Home, Center Street, Canton Tuesday afternoon with the Rev. Ralph R. Knight officiating.  Interment in Main Street Cemetery.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

CURTIS PRATT ROCKWELL of 6337 Winsor Avenue, (Elmira, NY) died November 15, 1940.  Funeral Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Westside Methodist Church, The Rev. Rolland N. Dutton officiating assisted by the Rev. Frederick II Butman.  Burial in Main Street Cemetery, Canton.

ROSS –MRS. LILLIAN ROSS HANNA, 83 of 10 S. Minnequa Ave., Canton died Sunday afternoon, Feb. 13, 1977 at the Skilled Nursing Unit of the Memorial Hospital, Towanda.  Prior to her illness, she formerly resided at 56 N. Center St., Canton.  She was the widow of Charles Hanna.  Born in Canton July 16, 1894, she was a daughter of Sullivan and Katharine Watts Ross.  She was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church in Canton and the Canton Garden Club.  She was a member and had served as president of the Florence Trippe Austin Sunday School Class and the United Presbyterian Women.  Her survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Russell H. (Katherine) Ross of Canton and Mrs. Fred (Elma) Stocker of Eatonton, Ga.; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  Funeral and committal services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. from the Ralph T. Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton.  Officiating will be the Rev. Dr. Raymond D. Fravel.  Burial will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

CHARLES SEELYE, 78 of RD 2 Canton died Wednesday, February 11, 1981 at the Williamsport Hospital.  Mr. Seelye was born Feb. 16, 1902 a son of Allen and Katherine Wilson Seelye in Roseville, Pa.  He was a retired field representative for the former Canton Creamery Assn.  Mr. Seelye was a member of the Canton Church of Christ Disciples, the Canton F and AM Lodge No. 415, the Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 and the Canton Sr. Citizens Club.  He was an honorary member of the Old Possessions Hunting Club and also a member of the Buckhorn Hunting Club and also a member of the Buckhorn Hunting Club, the Wheel Inn, Inc. and a life member of the Innes Hose Company.  He is survived by his wife, the former Marian Seeley; three sons, Herman A. and Leroy, both of Canton, Robert of Latham, N.Y.; a step-daughter, Mrs. Nona Gail Ragan of Canton; 10 grandchildren ;three great-grandchildren.  Funeral and committal services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton with Pastor William T. McNett, interim pastor of the Canton Church of Christ Disciples officiating.  Interment will be in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.  Friends may call at the funeral home Friday from 7 until 9 p.m.  Memorials may be directed to the Canton Community Nursing Service in Mr. Seelye’s memory.  –Towanda Daily Review

SELLARD –MRS. EMELINE LEAVITT.(SRGP 79600)  Canton Loses Early Settler In The Death OF Mrs. Leavitt.  Mrs. Emeline Leavitt Dies at Home of Her Daughter at Advanced Age of Eighty-nine Years – Prominent in D.A. R. Circles.  Canton, Pa., July 14 – Mrs. Emeline Leavitt, one of Canton’s first settlers, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Emerson B. Wilcox, Friday morning, July 13, 1923, after a year’s illness.  The decedent who was 89 years of age, was a daughter of the late Captain C. S. Sellard, one of the original settlers of Canton, who emigrated here from Luzerne county and purchased a farm on which the business section of Canton now stands.  The decedent was born and spent her eventful life in Canton, where she was respected by all.  Her death practically breaks the last link connecting Canton present with Canton of the past, when this pretty little town was a hamlet surrounded by thick forests.  For many years Mrs. Leavitt was identified with the social life of Canton and had been the chaplain of the Bradford Chapter, D. A. R., since its organization.  She was the oldest chaplain of the D. A. R. in the state.  For a half century she was an active and devoted member of the Baptist Church.  Mrs. Leavitt was married to Walter Leavitt in 1853.  Mr. Leavitt died in 1894.  A prayer service will be held from the home Monday afternoon at 2:00 o’clock and at 3 o’clock from the Baptist Church.  The funeral will be in charge of the Rev. R. J. Cornish.  Buried Main Street Cemetery.

GEORGE STALTER died Sunday morning (1923) as a result of injuries received when a tractor tipped over and pinned him to the ground.  He was employed by the Hinman Construction Company on the new athletic field east of town.  He was eighteen years old.  Interment was made in Main Street Cemetery. –Canton Independent Sentinel 10/24/2013 (90 years ago-1923)

SMITH Olen Sr. - Olen Smith, Sr. - Age 76, of Minnequa Heights, Canton. Friday, Jan. 3, 1964. He was a retired businessman and a member of the Methodist Church. Survived by wife, Mrs. Anne Owens Smith; son, Olen Jr. of Canton; sister, Mrs. Lena Clark of Elmira; one granddaughter. Body at Morse Funeral Home, Canton. Calling hours: today 3:30 to 9 p.m. Funeral there Monday at 2 p.m., the Rev. Orey Crippen. Main St. Cemetery, Canton. - Scrapbook clipping

SPALDING –MRS. HATTIE MANLEY died November 19, 1934 at the home of her son, Lawrence at Chevy Chase, Md.  She was al lifelong resident of Canton, where until within a years, she was active in church and social affairs.  Since   then failing health compelled her to withdraw from her various interests, and late in the summer she went to her son’s home.  Surviving are one son, and one sister, Mrs. J. O. Whitman, of Canton.  The funeral was held this (Thursday) afternoon in the Church of Christ, and interment was made in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton.

HORACE A. SPALDING, 90 died at home in Melbourne, Florida on Monday, December 28. 1981.  Born in Canton on February 28, 1891 he was the son of John G. and Irene McNett Spalding.  A retired farmer, Mr. Spalding moved to Florida in 1978.  His wife Madeline died in 1977.  While living in Florida, Mr. Spalding was a member of the Methodist Church in Melbourne.  He was a 40 year member of the Board of Directors of the First National Bank of Canton and was a Director, emeritus at the time of his death.  Mr. Spalding was also a 50 year member of the Canton Lodge #415 F&AM and a member of the Canton Lodge #321 of Odd Fellows.  He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Virginia Bronson of Melbourne, Fla.; a son, Mr. John Spalding of Canton RD 1; two grandsons, Wayne Bronson of Canton, RD 1 and John Bronson of Tampa, Fla.; two brothers, Mr. John Spalding, and Mr. Cameron Spalding, both of Memphis, Tenn. and one sister, Mrs. Genevieve Diggs of Memphis, Tenn.  Funeral services will be held at Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 North Center Street, Canton, Pa. on Saturday, January 2 at 2 p.m. with Rev. Willard Strunk, pastor of the Grover Church of Christ officiating.  The burial will be at the Main Street Cemetery in Canton.  Friends may call on Friday evening from 7 to 9.  The Canton Lodge #415 F&AM will hold a memorial service Friday at 8 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.  –Towanda Daily Review

SPALDING – MRS. LUCY GRIFFIN, one of the oldest residents of Canton, died at the home of her daughter on Tuesday afternoon, (July 11, 1905), after a short illness, at the advanced age of 93 years.  The funeral will be held from the residence of W. C. Sechrist at 1 o’clock this afternoon.  An obituary will appear later.  Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton.

AMASA D. SPAULDING. The late A. D. Spaulding, whose death occurred after an extended illness, on the morning of October 6th, 1903, was born November 27, 1817, at Columbus, N.Y.  He was the last surviving member of a family of ten children, descending from New England ancestry.  His boyhood days were spent at Columbus and later he with his father’s family moved to Odessa, N.Y.  Here he resided until 1848, when he came to Bradford County to work at his trade, that of carpenter.  His first carpenter work done in this section was upon the house now owned and occupied by Burton Montgomery, near East Canton.  On December 13, 1849 he was married to Bathsheba Greeno, with whom he lived for nearly fifty-four years.  He leaves to mourn his loss his aged widow and their three daughters – Julia A., wife of W. T. Lawrence, of East Canton; Mary L. wife of J. O. Whitman; and Hattie E., wife of Dr. L. E. Manley, both of Canton; besides many other relatives and friends.  –Burial in Main Street Cemetery, Canton.

SPAULDING –MRS. LUCY GRIFFIN, one of the oldest residents of this borough, died at her home on Lycoming Street on July 11, 1905.  She was the eldest child of the late Horace Spaulding and was born at Cedar Ledge on the 24th day of June, 1812.  In February, 1836, she married John W. Griffin and in the spring of that year they began housekeeping in this borough at or near the place where she died, thus having spent 69 years of her life in this borough.  She always manifested a great deal of pride in the growth and prosperity of the town in which she spent most of her years and often in conversation with her friends remarked “that when she first came her to live, there were only three houses in town.”  Her husband died in May, 1876, and she is survived by one sister, Mrs. Edwin Newman, by two sons, Seth B. Griffin and J. S. Griffin and by two daughters, Mrs. H. H. Spencer and Mrs. W. C. Sechrist.  For fifty years or more she was interested in church work and a faithful attendant at the Church of Christ until on account of her age she became to feeble to attend.  Mrs. Griffin was a remarkable woman and retained her mental faculties until the end.  She was bright and cheery in conversation and had a rich fund of reminiscences.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.  (Buried Main Street Cemetery.)

RODNEY ‘RON’ SPENCER – On the morning of Sunday, May 9th, 2004 former Canton resident Rodney C. Spencer, 58 was called to his Heavenly home after a lengthy illness.  At the time of his passing he was at his residence in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.  Born in Elmira on February 20, 1946 he was the son of Dorothy (Newell) Spencer and the late Donald Spencer.  Known to his family and friends as Ron, he was a graduate of Canton High School, a member of the Class of 1964.  Ron was generally known as being a quiet man, the proverbial strong, silent type who shunned the spotlight and the attention of others.  He preferred doing his good deeds quietly and unobtrusively behind the scene.  He was a resident of Ft. Lauderdale for the past three decades and was employed in the hotel industry until his failing health necessitated his early retirement almost two years ago.  Despite the physical challenges brought on by his infirmities, he never lost sight of three major aspects of his life.  He possessed a unique, dry sense of humor, a gift that enabled him to brighten even the most difficult moments.  He had a strong sense of family, phoning virtually every day from Florida to visit with his mother and the rest of his relatives in Canton.  Most of all, Ron had an unshakable lifelong faith in the Lord, which not only helped him through the dark days of his illness, but by example, inspired those he loved to do the same.  In recent years he was an active member of the Calvary Chapel in Ft. Lauderdale, attending regularly with the assistance of his local family of faith.  Never did he complain, for he knew that he was a safe in God’s care.  Surviving are his mother, Dorothy Spencer, Canton; brothers, Roger (and Joann) Spencer, Live Oak, FL; LaVerne (and Barbara) Spencer, Canton as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.  He was preceded in death by his father Donald Spencer and nephew Terry Spencer.  In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours.  A graveside service will be conducted at the Main Street Cemetery in Canton at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 12th with Pastor Tom Blackall of the Alba Christian Church officiating.  Professional services have been entrusted to Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, Inc., 40 N. Center St., Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

 

STALTER George Stalter

died Sunday morning as a result of injuries received when a tractor tipped over and pinned him to the ground.  He was employed by the Hinman Construction Company on the new athletic field east of town.  He was eighteen years old.  Interment was made in Main Street Cemetery.   The Canton Sentinel 1923

 

STONE –EDNA MARVIN, daughter of Mrs. J. W. Stone died Friday afternoon, July 19, 1929 after a long illness of rheumatism and heart trouble.  She was born December 24, 1915.  She is survived by her mother, her sister, Beatrice a student at Wilson College and her two brothers, Lawrence and Arthur at home.  The funeral was held Monday afternoon from her mother’s home and interment made in Main St. Cemetery.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

VANSYCKEL –MRS. BELINDA PARSONS died Saturday, March 12, 1938, at her home on Main Street, after a long illness of a complication of diseases.  Mrs. Parsons, who was 78 years old, was a native of Philadelphia, and came to Canton in 1877 with her mother, Mrs. Fanny G. VanSyckel.  In 1881 she married Dr. James W. Parsons, whose death occurred during the past December.  One daughter, Mrs. Wilbur Parsons, of Troy, survives.  The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon from her late home, and burial was made in Main Street Cemetery.  Rev. W. J. Cartmell was the officiating clergyman.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

WARNER Sarah - Mrs. James O. (Sarah) Randall, died at 9 o'clock on Wednesday night of this week at her home in Canton.  She was one of the oldest members of the Canton Presbyterian church and a lady who was highly regarded by all who knew her.  She is survived by two daughters; Mrs Morris Goodlone and Miss May Randall.  Towanda paper April 1912.

WATTS Catherine A. - LeRoy News) Mrs. Sullivan Ross of Laquin, died October 4th, of blood poison. She had a boil on her face and it became necessary to have it lanced. Blood poison set in, and she became violently insane, and remained so until her death. Drs. Dann, Reed, Coon and J. F. Haines were in attendance and did all in their power to save her, but it seemed impossible. She was taken to Canton Wednesday for burial by undertaker R. K. Morse. The procession passed through this place. TGR 1904   (Catherine A. Watts daughter of Justice & Charlotte Watts)

WATTS –MRS. ELECTA SCHAFFENAKER, age 79, widow of Jacob E. died at home 5 Washington St. Saturday Feb. 18, 1956, daughter of Floyd and Adelia Watts.  Survived by 2 sons Floyd E. and Walter both of Canton, several nieces and nephews.  Funeral Monday at 2 p.m. Rev. Donald Gardener, officiating.  Burial in Main St. Cemetery. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

WESTGATE Benjamin-Canton, Oct 27 (1947) - Benjamin H Westgate of Canton, died at his home on Minnequa Avenue Monday evening after a short illness. Mr.Westgate was born at Monroeton on May 12, 1866, the son of the late Orrin B Westgate and Emma Stevens Westgate. He was a registered pharmacist, having graduated from the University of Buffalo. He was associated in the drug business for 12 years with the Kirby Drug Store at Towanda and in 1906 went to Sacramento, Calif where he was associated with the Sacramento Fruit Company. He returned to Canton in 1916 and was associated with the Swayze Folding Box Company. He was widely known in Canton as collector of taxes for 14 years. In 1925 he married Nell M Black, who until recently was a member of the Canton Borough school faculty. Besides his wife he is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Robert J Lindley of Canton; a sister, Mrs. Helen McFadden of Noroton, Conn; five grandchildren, Mrs. Lois Landon, Sheldon Lindley, Chief Warrant Officer Benjamin Lindley of the U S Navy, Lucy and JoAnn Lindley; two nephews, Leslie Mcfadden of Santa Barbara, Calif and Theodore Mcfadden of San Francisco, Calif; a niece, Mrs. Henrik Luykx of Noroton, Conn. Services will be held at the home Thursday afternoon at 2:30 with burial in the Main Street Cemetery, Canton. Rev. William S Woodman, minister of the First Presbyterian Church at Canton will officiate assisted by Rev, Waldo Manley.

?. –MRS. CHARLOTTE DEWITT, widow of the late I. C. Dewitt of this place died at the residence of her son-in-law, Allen Baker at Windber, Pa., December 23, 1911 aged 75 years.  The remains were brought to this place of interment on Christmas day.  She is survived by one child, a daughter, the wife of Allen Baker.  She had many friends in Canton and vicinity, who were much pained to learn of her death.  –Canton Independent Sentinel  (Buried Main Street Cemetery, Canton.)

CANTON CEMETERY - History
 The Canton Cemetery Association dates its existence from March, 1860. At that time the only public cemetery in Canton Borough was a small plot of ground containing about half an acre on the north side of Main Street, east of Washington Street. The ruins of an old church had been removed from this lot some years before and the old churchyard which had been used as a burying ground for 30 years was neglected and overgrown with weeds and briars. Title to this lot had been lost and the land was about to revert to the old Granteer farm of which it was originally a part. About this time S.L. Gillett of Elmira became owner of the farm and was willing to sell a piece of the land, including the old cemetery, for cemetery purposes. Thus a public meeting of the citizens of Canton was called on March 17, 1860. A constitution and by-laws were adopted and a board of trustees elected at this meeting. It was decided to purchase about two acres of land including the old cemetery, from S.L. Gillett and divided it into lots to be sold. Thirty-nine such lots were sold at that first meeting, at $10 each. On February 13, 1864 the Association voted to apply for a "decree of incorporation" and on April 12, paid the balance of $110.84 due S.L. Gillett on the lot. In 1866, one and one fourth acres additional was purchased from C.L. Stockwell and at the annual meeting held in 1867, price of lots was set at $15. In 1874, the Park Cemetery Association offered that cemetery to the Canton Cemetery Association, but the latter did not buy, as the 90 unsold lots in the Main Street cemetery were thought to be sufficient for the next 20 years. In October 1884, the iron fence on the south side or Main Street side of the cemetery was erected by G.A. Edwards of the Wilkes-Barre Iron Fence Co. at a cost of $420. Money for this was raised by subscription among the lot owners, with E.W. Colwell donating $210. On January 5, 1885, the Association voted to increase the price of lots to $20 "in view of improvements made in cemetery and grounds." The first bequest made to the to the cemetery was received from the will of E.W. Colwell later this year. The amount was $500, interest of which was to be used for upkeep of his lots and any balance for improvement of the cemetery. In July, 1885, trustees were asked to raise money by subscription to erect an iron fence on the north side of the cemetery. This also was erected by G.A. Edwards and cost $300, being somewhat shorter that that on the south. In October 1887 two lots were offered to Ingham Post 91, GAR on condition a soldiers' monument costing less than $1,000 was erected thereon. Members of the post felt they could not put up such a monument, so did not accept the lots. However, from the first, Memorial Day obervance in Canton has always been held in the northeast corner of this cemetery. The last lot as originally surveyed was sold by the Association about 1909, but several have been transferred by owners since. About three years ago, two never-used drives were closed and staked out as lots; several of these have been sold and a number more are available, with perpetual care. A trust fund has been established and is growing each year, so the income from this with that received for the care of soldiers' graves, assures good care for the future. In addition to money derived from the sale of lots, it is interesting to note that hay was sold from the cemetery each year until it began to fill up. In the early days, as capital increased, money was loaned in varying amounts at 6% interest to reputable citizens, thus bringing in additional revenue. The oldest marked grave is that of "Polly, daughter of Abel and Olive Blakeman, died August 16, 1811, age 4 years, 6 months"; the next oldest reads "Abel Blakeman, died September 30, 1820, age 4 years."